Bubo

Bubo

A bubo is a swollen, inflamed lymph node typically associated with certain infectious diseases. It presents as a painful lump, most often in the groin or armpit. Historically, buboes are most famously associated with the bubonic plague, a deadly disease caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis.

Bubo as seen in a patient with bubonic plague.

Anatomy and Physiology

Lymph nodes are integral components of the body's lymphatic system. They filter harmful substances, including pathogens, from the lymph fluid. When a large number of pathogens are trapped in a lymph node, it can become inflamed and swollen, resulting in a bubo.

Causes

While bubonic plague is the most widely recognized disease associated with buboes, other conditions can also lead to their formation:

• Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Diseases like gonorrhea and chlamydia can cause buboes in the groin area.
• Cat Scratch Disease: An infection caused by Bartonella henselae, typically following a cat scratch or bite.
• Lymphogranuloma Venereum: A type of chlamydial infection affecting the lymphatic system.

Diagnosis

Buboes are typically diagnosed based on their appearance and the patient's clinical history. However, to identify the underlying cause:

• Needle aspiration: Drawing fluid from the swollen node to examine for pathogens.
• Blood tests: To check for specific infections or immune responses.
• Imaging: Ultrasound or MRI can be used to assess the size and characteristics of the bubo.

Treatment

Treatment of a bubo depends on its cause:

• For bubonic plague, antibiotics like streptomycin, gentamicin, and doxycycline are prescribed.
• STIs causing buboes require specific antibiotic regimens.
• Over-the-counter pain relievers and warm compresses can alleviate pain and inflammation.

Historical Context

Buboes are historically significant because of their association with the bubonic plague, which decimated populations during several pandemics. The term "bubonic" is derived from the Latin word "bubo", meaning swollen gland.

See Also

• Lymphatic System
• Bubonic Plague
• Lymph Node

References

Bubo Resources
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